World Cup 2026: every key date, from kickoff to the final
· dates · schedule
When does the World Cup 2026 start?
The 2026 FIFA World Cup starts on Thursday 11 June 2026. The opening match is Mexico vs South Africa at Estadio Azteca, Mexico City — kickoff is 20:00 BST / 21:00 CET.
Stage-by-stage dates
48 teams play 104matches across seven stages. These dates come straight from FIFA's confirmed schedule:
| Stage | Dates | Matches |
|---|---|---|
| Group stage | 11 Jun – 27 Jun | 72 |
| Round of 32 | 28 Jun – 3 Jul | 16 |
| Round of 16 | 4 Jul – 7 Jul | 8 |
| Quarter-finals | 9 Jul – 11 Jul | 4 |
| Semi-finals | 14 Jul – 15 Jul | 2 |
| Third-place play-off | 18 Jul | 1 |
| Final | 19 Jul | 1 |
2026 is the first World Cup with a Round of 32 — the knockout bracket has six rounds instead of five. The full bracket is on the knockout stage page.
When is the World Cup 2026 final?
The final is on Sunday 19 July 2026 at MetLife Stadium, New York/New Jersey. Kickoff times in every timezone are on the final page.
How long does the tournament run?
39 days, from 11 Jun to 19 Jul. That is the longest World Cup ever played — a consequence of expanding to 48 teams and 104 matches.
What time are kickoffs where you are?
Matches are played across North American timezones, so kickoff times land differently depending on where you watch. Use the schedule converted to your timezone — UK viewers want the BST schedule — or check today's matches during the tournament.